Major Development Proposed for East London Beauty Spot
Plans for a significant new residential scheme, featuring two tower blocks and 245 homes, are poised for a decisive vote by councillors in East London. The proposal for Fleet Street Hill, situated directly next to the cherished Allen Gardens in Tower Hamlets, has been recommended for approval by the local authority's own planning officers.
Property investor Blue Coast Capital is seeking permission to construct the development on a currently vacant, triangular parcel of land nestled between overground and mainline railway lines, just to the north of the popular park.
Details of the Proposed Towers
The larger of the two buildings would be a twelve-storey 'co-living' block containing 220 privately-rented studio flats. These units are designed to include en-suite bathrooms, kitchenettes, and shared communal areas, echoing the model of modern student accommodation.
A second, slightly shorter building would rise ten storeys and is dedicated entirely to social housing. This block would provide 25 new flats for social rent, comprising a mix of family-sized homes: eight four-bedroom flats, fifteen three-bedroom flats, and two two-bedroom flats.
Benefits and Council Recommendation
In their report, Tower Hamlets Council planning officers have strongly endorsed the project. They argue that the development would, in a major way, help facilitate the much-needed improvements for Allen Gardens.
The officers highlight that the new buildings, with windows overlooking the park, would enhance the safety and security of not only the site but the immediate surrounding area including Allen Gardens. They also confirmed that the developer has committed £1 million towards major upgrades for the green space, which could include new play facilities.
While acknowledging the buildings would be taller than others in the vicinity, the officers described the design as an attractive, well-modulated backdrop to the park. The final decision rests with the council's strategic development committee, which is scheduled to vote on the Fleet Street Hill plans on Wednesday, November 12th.
This proposal emerges amidst other local developments, including early council talks for a site on Pedley Street to the east, and the awaited government decision on the contentious Truman Brewery redevelopment to the south of Allen Gardens.
